Emergency Communications Operator

This position is eligible for a sign on bonus:

• Lateral Dispatch
  
  Experience:
  
  $3,500
• Entry Level, No Dispatch
  
  Experience:
  
  $2,500

The role of the Emergency Communications Operator is an intersection of critical intervention of lifesaving instructions for the caller and a conduit of essential communications for the field responder to improve outcomes. The fundamental reason this classification exists is to receive, evaluate, and process all 9-1-1 calls for police, fire, and medical assistance; or, to operate base radio equipment for dispatching police units on police related incidents.

Depending on the assignment, incumbents may operate a complex multi-line telephone system, radios, computer terminals, and software equipment to receive, evaluate, and transmit information that frequently involves emergency situations affecting human welfare and safety. Work involves evaluating incoming calls, dispatching field units, and transmitting information and messages upon request and/or according to established procedures. Employees are expected to demonstrate extensive communications skills and to exercise judgment under pressure.

Work is performed under the general direction of a supervisor. Positions require shift, holiday, and weekend work.

The ideal Emergency Communications Operator is the calm in the storm—the reassuring voice when seconds count. This individual thrives under pressure, demonstrating exceptional multitasking skills and unwavering attention to detail. They are quick-thinking, tech‑savvy, and communicate clearly and compassionately, even in the most challenging situations. They will be familiar with law enforcement processes and be able to work days and/or nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime hours as needed.

• Composure and Confidence – Staying focused and decisive during emergencies.
• Empathy and Professionalism – Treating every caller with respect and understanding.
• Adaptability – Navigating rapidly changing scenarios with ease.
• Team Spirit – Collaborating seamlessly with first responders and colleagues.
• Commitment to Excellence – Dedicated to accuracy, safety, and service.

If you are passionate about making a real difference in your community and thrive in a fast‑paced, mission‑critical environment, we encourage you to apply.

At the City of Goodyear, you will be a part of an organization that values its employees as its greatest asset. You will become part of a dedicated team of professionals that are committed to building and maintaining a highly engaged workforce. You will be challenged to learn and grow in an environment that values employee development and career‑building. You will thrive in a culture of innovation.

We believe that successful employees are those that possess these six core values:

Adaptability – Integrity – Initiative – Empathy – Optimism – Innovation

Only a limited number of the most qualified applicants meeting the City's requirements will be invited for an interview. The examination process for this position will consist of a Critical Assessment and panel interview. All communication regarding application status and interview notifications will be sent via email — please monitor your junk/spam email for communication as it will come from a system‑generated source.

This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The following functions do not identify all duties performed by the incumbent. Other duties and responsibilities will be performed as assigned.

• Assist citizens who call 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies, Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD), and multiple telephone lines by answering and screening all incoming calls, working under pressure and extreme time constraints to assess the emergency situation and act upon it, coordinating calls and relaying information and assistance requests to appropriate public safety agency.
• Screening Initial Calls. Handling requests through traditional two‑way communication voice calls via landline or wireless devices, or various sources such as text messages, visual data (video or images), social media, fire alarms, gunshot detection systems, and even automated data.
• Demonstra…